Intense storms and bad weather can damage your property no matter where you live. However, you can take steps to protect a home from wind damage. While some problems may be unavoidable, there are upgrades and improvements to minimize the risk of severe storm damage to your home. Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Upgrade the Windows and Doors
The windows and doors are the most vulnerable areas of your home during a storm. If high winds cause debris to go airborne, the windows could shatter, leaving your living spaces exposed to the elements. To better protect your home, upgrade your windows and doors to impact-resistant models. These products are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, so they’re well worth the investment if you live in an area prone to severe weather.
2. Reinforce the Garage Door to Protect a Home from Wind Damage
Your garage door is another vulnerable spot during a storm. Non-insulated doors are more susceptible to damage because they are hollow. High winds can cause them to bend and collapse if not properly secured, leaving your home open to further damage. Replace weak or damaged panels with sturdier ones to reinforce the garage door. Add bracing along the sides and top of the door for extra support.
Alternatively, you can purchase and install a new garage door designed to withstand strong winds.
3. Trim Trees and Shrubs Near Your Home
Trees and shrubs can be caught by the wind and cause damage to your home. Trim foliage near the house to avoid damage from downed tree limbs. Remove dead or dying branches. Prune shrubs so their limbs aren’t growing too near your home. During a wind storm, the branches can impact the house and break windows or damage the siding.
It’s also important to prune trees overhanging the house and driveway. If branches break and fall, they could cause damage to your roofing or a car parked near the house.
If you’re unable to trim the trees, hire a professional arborist for the task. They will have the tools and equipment to manage the job quickly and safely.
4. Strategic Landscaping to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Home
By strategically planting trees and shrubs, you can create a barrier that will help deflect strong winds. Evergreens are particularly good for this, as their dense foliage can provide year-round protection. Consider using a mix of evergreens and deciduous trees when planning your landscape to create the most effective windbreak. As mentioned above, properly maintained vegetation is essential – dead or dying branches can cause harm in high winds. So keep your landscape plants healthy and trimmed to help mitigate storm damage.
Protecting your home from wind damage isn’t complicated or expensive. You can rest easy knowing that your property is better prepared for severe weather by taking a few simple precautions.
On Point Property Inspections offers home inspections in the Greater Triangle area of North Carolina. Contact us to schedule our services.